Winter Weather Preparation Tips

Due to the cooler temperatures in your area, we would like to advise you of some winter weather tips and recommendations that will help you have a safe winter season:

Make sure your attic is well insulated and ventilated: Contact a professional to assess that your home is properly insulated and ventilated to help prevent ice dam formation. An improperly insulated or ventilated attic can cause snow and ice to melt and then re-freeze on your roof. This may lead to ice dam formation, which prevents water from effectively draining off of your roof, and could cause water to backup and flow into your home. Have your heating systems, vents and chimneys inspected: Have a professional inspect, repair and clean your home heating systems on a regular basis. You will also want to make sure all vents and chimneys are clear from any obstructions or debris to ensure exhaust exits your home. Protect your home against frozen pipes: Your interior plumbing systems and water sources must be well insulated and protected from freezing temperatures. If you are going to be away from your home for an extended period of time, it is recommended that you have your water systems drained and valves shut off to prevent frozen pipes. Remove Snow and Ice: If it is safe and reasonable to do so, you should regularly remove snow and ice accumulation from your roof, decks, entryways and walkways to help maintain your home’s structural integrity. We recommend you contact a professional to help if you are unable to safely handle manage this on your own. Clear your gutters: Clear your gutters of any debris or ice to ensure rain water and melted snow clears from your roof instead of backing up and flowing into your home through vents or ice dams. Contact a professional if you are unable to safely access and clear your gutters on your own. Inspect Sump Pumps: If your home has a sump pump drainage system, check to make sure your sump pump equipment and drainage system work properly. Have an auxiliary battery or generator available to power your system in the event you lose electricity during a storm. Confirm your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors work: Improperly maintained or defective heating systems can cause dangerous carbon monoxide gas to enter your home. Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly to confirm they work properly and are fully charged. Contact your local Fire Department or a professional if you need help installing and testing the detectors in your home. Make sure your vehicle is prepared: You should keep a first-aid kit, warm clothing and blankets, flares, a small shovel, non-perishable food, water and car battery charging equipment in your vehicle at all times. These items will come in handy if you are stranded on the road during inclement weather.